Profiles

On The Road: DC-MD-VA

When visiting the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, we couldn’t just stop at just one salon since we don’t get over that way too often. Follow along as we discover unique salons in D.C., central Maryland, and northern Virginia.

The staff who was working at the salon on Thursday morning were happy to take a photo with me (third from right). From left to right: Nancy Diaz, Iris Baker, Maisie Dunbar, Humaira Khan, and Jasmine Young.

Big WelcomeI was given a tour upon entrance, and I assumed the tour was just for this article. But as it turns out, every new client gets a tour. Each new client also fills out an “intake information form,” on which she shares information such as her birthday (for a birthday card), her e-mail address (if she wants the salon’s e-newsletter), and any health issues that may affect her beauty services. She also receives a welcome bag that includes product samples, a welcome letter, and info about the salon’s “Points & Rewards” loyalty program.

Suggesting Skin CareSkin care is an area in which veteran salon owner Maisie is still trying to build the business. She came up with an innovative idea about three years ago, when she launched a $78/month unlimited skin care services plan. “It lets people explore our skin care menu, so I was able to build the business that way,” she says. The salon recently added threading and henna services. For a brow threading, the client gets to lie down on a doctor’s office-style bed, instead of sitting up like at many other salons.

Product PlacementMaisie has a keen eye for visual merchandising — which comes in handy since the salon’s retail selection is huge. When it comes to placement, she keeps like with like (tea next to candles, all foot care products together), and moves items around a lot. “I like to keep it fresh,” Maisie says. What doesn’t sell? Polish. Maisie sells polish only on request, pricing it according to how much is left in the bottle (either retail price, wholesale price, or free).

Fun Facts:> In her first week at the new location of Maisie Dunbar Spa Lounge (her spa recently moved), Maisie saw so many dogs, plus a dog park within walking distance, that within days she was at Cosmoprof stocking up on dog products for retail. (Get a list of salon-friendly pet products at www.nailsmag.com/petretail.)